A blog exploring morality, politics, and religion.

Ten commandments for atheists

Posted on November 3, 2011

In his new book, “God, No!”, magician and skeptic Penn Jillette takes on a challenge from Glenn Beck and proposes a set of ten commandments for atheists. This has been done before by many people — including Christopher Hitchens — but nonetheless, here’s Penn’s list for your consideration:

2. Do not put things or even ideas above other human beings. (Let’s scream at each other about Kindle versus iPad, solar versus nuclear, Republican versus Libertarian, Garth Brooks versus Sun Ra— but when your house is on fire, I’ll be there to help.)

3. Say what you mean, even when talking to yourself. (What used to be an oath to (G)od is now quite simply respecting yourself.)

4. Put aside some time to rest and think. (If you’re religious, that might be the Sabbath; if you’re a Vegas magician, that’ll be the day with the lowest grosses.)

5. Be there for your family. Love your parents, your partner, and your children. (Love is deeper than honor, and parents matter, but so do spouse and children.)

6. Respect and protect all human life. (Many believe that “Thou shalt not kill” only refers to people in the same tribe. I say it’s all human life.)